PLANNING restrictions which will stop takeaway food outlets from opening near Barnsley’s schools in the future have been granted.

The revised guidance, approved at a full council meeting yesterday, does not introduce new planning policies but updates existing rules in line with national guidance and the latest public health data.

Under the changes, planning permission is likely to be refused for new takeaways within walking distance of schools 800 metres unless they are located in high footfall areas such as the town centre.

The changes follow updates to national planning policy, which place greater emphasis on restricting takeaways near schools and tackling health inequalities through the planning system.

The council will also take a firmer approach to areas with a high number of takeaways, with applications more likely to be rejected if they lead to so-called ‘clustering’ or harm the character of a shopping area.

Other measures remain in place to limit the impact on nearby residents, including controls on noise, cooking smells and late-night opening hours.

Takeaways are also unlikely to be approved where they share a wall with a home under the new guidelines.

Council officers said the updated guidance reflects growing concerns around obesity and unhealthy weight, particularly among children and young people in the borough.

Councillor Alex Burnett, who is also a doctor, said: “Not allowing hot food takeaways within 800 metres of schools means that the temptation to make the wrong choice at break times and after school is reduced.

“Over two-thirds of Barnsley residents are overweight or obese, as well as a large proportion of our children.

“Obesity comes with a range of negative health outcomes that I see every day at work, from arthritis to heart disease to cancer.

“We have a duty in this chamber to do what we can to make our residents lives better, to live happier, healthier and longer lives.

“This policy will go a small way to helping us achieve that.”